The night sky over Dhanbilash village in Kailashahar shimmered as thousands gathered under its vast expanse. The air buzzed with excitement, and the anticipation was palpable. At exactly 10 PM on March 30, Minister Tinku Roy stepped forward lit the ceremonial lamp, marking the grand opening of the much-awaited Thabal Chongba festival. A wave of applause rippled through the crowd—the celebration had begun.
For the Meitei Manipuri community, Thabal Chongba is more than just a festival; it is a tradition steeped in history, culture, and faith. What began centuries ago as a simple dance under the moonlight had evolved into a vibrant gathering that united generations. This year, the festival was not just about celebrating Holi—it was about keeping an ancient legacy alive.
As the night unfolded, dignitaries graced the occasion—Binoy Singh, Vice Chairman of Chandipur Panchayat Samiti, senior advocate Sandeep Debroy, Dhanbilash Gram Panchayat Pradhan Bhodramohan Singh, and Unakoti District Social Welfare Officer Vidyasagar Debbarma. They watched as the young men and women, their faces glowing with joy, clasped hands and moved in graceful circles to the rhythm of traditional folk tunes. Their laughter blended with the beats of the drums, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Standing before the gathering, Binoy Singh spoke about the deeper meaning of Thabal Chongba. “It is more than just a dance—it is a connection, a tradition that brings our youth together, just as it has for generations,” he said. The festival, although synonymous with the Holi season, was also a vibrant youth gathering, a space where friendships were formed, and love blossomed.
The highlight of the evening was a spectacular performance by the renowned L.L.B. Music Band from Manipur. Their electrifying presence set the stage ablaze, further amplifying the festive spirit.
As Minister Tinku Roy addressed the crowd, his words resonated with the audience. “The Meitei Manipuri community has always been devoted to Lord Krishna and Jagannath, upholding their Vaishnavite beliefs with deep faith. Thabal Chongba is a testament to that devotion,” he said. He described the festival’s poetic essence—the name itself means “Dance in the Moonlight.” Once tied closely to Holi, it had now become a month-long celebration of life, love, and culture.
The night slowly gave way to dawn, but the energy never waned. As the festival came to a close in the early hours of March 31, the echoes of laughter and the rhythm of dancing feet lingered in the air. For the people of the Meitei Manipuri community, Thabal Chongba was not just a night of festivity—it was a bridge between the past and the present, a dance that would continue under many more moonlit skies.
